31 October 2011

Since today is the last day of Polish American Heritage Month and I have been busy working on my personal research this month, I thought I should take a moment to recommend a learning resource.

FamilySearch's Learning Center includes several videos on Polish research. Cecile Wendt Jensen recorded two videos: Introduction to Polish Research and Advanced Polish Research, which are excellent companions to her book Sto Lat: A Modern Guide to Polish Genealogy.

While you are watching the videos, you will want to take notes. There are many websites she recommends, including those for archives in Poland with options to view the content in English. She also dispels some of the myths surrounding genealogical research in Poland and provides sound research advice for records in the United States, as well.

04 October 2011

Last Christmas, my husband surprised me with a Kindle, which I have been in love with ever since. I have read articles on how useful iPads and other devices can be helpful with genealogy and decided to do a search for using my Kindle for genealogy. I stumbled upon the Long Lost Relatives blog post "Kindle for Genealogy" by Susan Peterson. In the post, she explains how she, too, has a soft spot for her Kindle and has transformed hers into a portable research notebook.

Here are a few of the items I added to my Kindle:

Genealogical society newsletters

Research reports

Pedigree charts

Cheat sheets

Current to-do-list

I wish I had thought of Susan Peterson's ideas, but I have no problem following her example and using my Kindle to make me more effective in my research. I strongly recommend that you use the link above to read the post - I know you won't be disappointed.

About

When I started my genealogical research, I quickly realized my Polish heritage. My paternal grandmother was born to first-generation Polish-Americans. Ever since, I have spent the majority of my research time on this part of my family and in learning more about Polish genealogy, history, and culture. I still have many unanswered questions and will use this site as a forum to share what I have learned and to continue growing my knowledge.